The full-back was sent off for a challenge late in the Potters' 1-0 win over FC Dallas in the United States on Saturday.

Boss Mark Hughes had feared that he would therefore be suspended for the Premier League curtain-raiser against Liverpool at Anfield on August 17.

But the FA have confirmed that provided he sits out Stoke's final tour match against Philadelphia Union on Tuesday, he will be free to play the Reds.

A statement on the Stoke website read: "Stoke City can confirm that defender Andy Wilkinson will serve an immediate one-match suspension following his dismissal in Saturday's 1-0 pre-season friendly victory against FC Dallas.

"The news, which has been confirmed by the Football Association, ensures that Wilkinson is available for selection for the 2013/14 curtain-raiser against Liverpool at Anfield."

ood grief. Someone guessed that the form English player at the moment might be in his national side with some other players? And that's espionage? Now if they discovered that Emile Heskey was going to be in the starting line up.... at right back.... THAT would be espionage. Give it a rest Roy.